Joao Seara | BMus Double Bass

Supported by the Guildhall School Trust

What opportunities have you had so far as a Guildhall School student, that have particularly stood out for you?

One month after I came to London I attended an audition for Tutti position in the bass section of the London Symphony Orchestra and I was given a trial. That created loads of opportunities that remarkably improved my career. This would never have happened had I not come to study at Guildhall.

What do you plan to go on to do? How will your time at the Guildhall School prepare you for that?

I was very fortunate to get a job in Amsterdam this last April as the Co-Principal Bass of the Netherlands Philharmonic Orchestra. Guildhall had a crucial role on my success. The intense, high quality orchestral projects that Guildhall School provides to their students, and the masterclasses in orchestral playing, prepared me for what professional life is about.

How has being awarded a scholarship helped you during your time at the Guildhall School?

It was the basis of everything. Without the help of the scholarship that the Guildhall School kindly awarded me, it would have been impossible to come to London to study. I am very grateful that the school believed in me and gave me this opportunity.